15/12/2025
In a moment of love, tenderness and pure artistry, Asher Reichman (Rodolfo) and Elena Xanthoudakis (Mimi) opened More Than Opera's Christmas Lunch with Puccini's 'O soave fanciulla' from 'La Boheme'.
And so began a sparkling program of Puccini favourites, as both seasoned artists lavished an appreciative audience with arias and duets that showcased the power and pathos of Puccini with all the joy and heartbreak of love.
Highlights included Xanthoudakis' moving 'Vissi d'arte' (Tosca), with a rich, warm tone layered with grief at the imminent loss of her beloved Cavaradossi; and Reichman's powerful 'Nessun Dorma' (Turandot) ringing with absolute conviction that he will win his bride Turandot.
The second half transported us to Lehar's world of romance and charm, with favourites from 'The Merry Widow' 'The Land of Smiles' and more. A stand-out moment came with Xanthoudakis' irresistible 'Meine Lippen, sie Kussen so heiss' from 'Giuditta', a performance of playful allure, a flirt, a twinkle, a touch and a lingering glance that left the audience smiling.
As always, thank you to Maestro Dr David Kram for your artistic direction and accompanying, and to the More Than Opera Creative Events Team led by Judy Hooper, with Sheila Lamont-Stacey, Heidi Victoria, and Bernie Capicchiano. Special thanks also to our wonderful Master of Ceremonies, Richard Hobson.
And to you our dedicated More Than Opera supporters - THANK YOU. With you we can continue our mission to nurture and support young opera singers as they grow into their professional careers.
